Apple has initiated a groundbreaking lawsuit against prominent tech leaker Jon Prosser, accusing him of illicitly obtaining and distributing confidential trade secrets related to the then-unannounced iOS 26. This legal action, filed in the Northern District of California, intensifies the ongoing battle between tech giants and those who leak their closely guarded product details. The core of Apple’s complaint centers on an alleged “coordinated scheme” to gain unauthorized access to a development iPhone, revealing features of the highly anticipated mobile operating system ahead of its official unveiling. This high-stakes legal challenge could redefine the landscape for tech leaks and intellectual property protection.
Apple’s Bold Allegations Against Prosser and Ramacciotti
The lawsuit outlines a meticulously planned operation, with Apple asserting that Jon Prosser orchestrated the theft of its proprietary information. According to Apple’s legal filing, Prosser allegedly recruited Michael Ramacciotti, offering him “money or a future job opportunity.” Ramacciotti, who was friends with Apple software engineer Ethan Lipnik, reportedly agreed to access Lipnik’s company-issued development iPhone.
Apple claims Ramacciotti learned Lipnik’s iPhone passcode. He then allegedly used location-tracking methods to determine when Lipnik would be absent for an extended period. With Lipnik away, Ramacciotti purportedly accessed the development device, which was running an unreleased version of iOS 26.
The suit further details that Ramacciotti then engaged in a video call with Prosser. During this call, he allegedly displayed various features and designs from the unreleased software. Apple states that Prosser recorded this video call. He is accused of subsequently sharing the captured footage with others, using it as the foundation for creating detailed renders of the new designs, which he later published.
How Apple Uncovered the Breach
Apple asserts it discovered the intricate details of the alleged theft in April 2025. This came through an anonymous email from an individual who claimed to have seen Prosser’s recording of the video call. Crucially, the tipster recognized Lipnik’s apartment in the background of the footage.
Adding weight to their claims, Apple also cites a voice note sent by Ramacciotti to Lipnik. In this recording, Ramacciotti reportedly apologized for the incident, explicitly stating that the entire subterfuge was Prosser’s original idea. Lipnik subsequently provided this critical voice note to Apple. As a direct consequence of this security lapse and his failure to properly safeguard unreleased software in accordance with company policies, Apple terminated Ethan Lipnik’s employment.
Prosser’s Track Record and Controversial Leaks
Prior to this lawsuit, Jon Prosser had established himself as a prominent, albeit controversial, source of Apple leaks. His YouTube channels, “Front Page Tech” and “Genius Bar Podcast,” were platforms for several high-profile revelations concerning the upcoming iOS version, initially rumored as iOS 19 before its official designation as iOS 26.
In January 2025, Prosser released what he touted as “your very first look at iOS 19.” This video notably revealed a redesigned camera app. Following that, in March, he provided a glimpse of a revamped Messages app. His most significant claim came in April with “the biggest iOS leak ever,” which showcased Apple’s supposed new “Liquid Glass” design language for the operating system. Apple’s lawsuit strongly implies that Prosser’s confidence in these leaks stemmed from their alleged direct acquisition from an official, pre-release Apple device.
Prosser’s Defense and the Broader Implications
Jon Prosser has publicly refuted Apple’s allegations. Responding on X (formerly Twitter), he insisted that Apple’s account is “not how the situation played out on my end.” Prosser maintains he possesses evidence to support his position. He explicitly denied “plotting” to access anyone’s phone, possessing any passwords, or being aware of how the information was obtained. This sets the stage for a compelling legal battle, with both sides claiming to have definitive evidence.
This Apple lawsuit against Jon Prosser signals a heightened determination by the tech giant to protect its intellectual property. The case draws parallels to Apple’s aggressive stance against Gizmodo in 2010 following an iPhone prototype leak. Such Apple legal action could send a chilling message throughout the tech leaker community, potentially altering how information about unreleased products is obtained and disseminated. The ongoing dispute over iOS 26 leaks highlights the immense value Apple places on its trade secrets.
Apple is seeking both financial damages and a court order to prevent Prosser from disclosing any further trade secrets. The company argues that even though iOS 26 has since been publicly announced at WWDC, the compromised development phone “contained other unannounced design elements.” This implies a continued risk to Apple’s proprietary information, justifying the need for an ongoing injunction. The full extent of the information accessed by Prosser and Ramacciotti remains a concern for Apple. This landmark case will be closely watched, potentially shaping the future of information security in the fast-paced tech industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Apple’s specific allegations against Jon Prosser and Michael Ramacciotti?
Apple alleges that Jon Prosser orchestrated a scheme to steal trade secrets related to iOS 26. The lawsuit claims Prosser offered Michael Ramacciotti money or a job to secretly access a development iPhone belonging to Ramacciotti’s friend, Apple engineer Ethan Lipnik. Ramacciotti allegedly used location tracking, obtained Lipnik’s passcode, and then accessed the device. Apple states Ramacciotti showed Prosser the unreleased software via a recorded video call, which Prosser then used to create and publish renders of new iOS designs.
What are the potential consequences for leakers and employees involved in trade secret breaches?
For leakers like Jon Prosser, consequences can include significant financial damages, court injunctions preventing future disclosures, and legal fees. For employees involved, even as victims, the repercussions can be severe, as seen with Ethan Lipnik, who was fired by Apple for failing to properly secure confidential company property, despite being a victim of the alleged breach. This case underscores the high stakes for anyone handling or disclosing sensitive unreleased information in the tech industry.
What is Apple seeking in this lawsuit and what are the next steps in the legal process?
Apple is seeking both monetary damages for the alleged theft of its trade secrets and a permanent court order. This injunction would prevent Prosser and Ramacciotti from disclosing any further confidential Apple information without consent and compel them to destroy any such materials they possess. The company also requested a jury trial. With Prosser denying Apple’s account and claiming his own evidence, the case is likely headed to court, where both sides will present their arguments and evidence.
References
- www.theverge.com
- www.engadget.com
- macdailynews.com
- www.macworld.com
- <a href="https://www.theregister.com/2025/07/18/applesuesyoutuberiosleak/”>www.theregister.com
